In January, Sayle will also perform new material at the Soho theatre as part of his own self-titled weekly show that will feature comics from the circuit.

Like Paul Merton, who announced his own return to standup earlier this month, Sayle was an influential figure in the alternative comedy scene of the 1980s. His style tended toward the absurd and surreal, but grew increasingly politicised. His television work includes roles in The Young Ones, several episodes of Comic Strip Presents and a number of his own series.

Chortle has drawn attention to a blog post on Sayle's website, in which the comic writes: "I keep going to comedy clubs with all my bits of paper in my pocket with bits of material scribbled on them, thinking I might perform, but as soon as I get into the club I think: 'Sod this, there's no way I'm getting up there.'"